RORY LAWSON RETIRES THROUGH INJURY

Newcastle Falcons and Scotland scrum-half Rory Lawson has today announced his retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect due to a career-ending wrist injury.

Lawson, who represented Scotland 31 times and skippered his country on 5 occasions, played an integral part in Newcastle’s successful Championship campaign, helping the Falcons to secure a return to the Aviva Premiership.

During his 10 year professional career Lawson built a reputation as a natural leader. A highly intelligent player and excellent communicator, he combined all the attributes a scrum-half needs – brains, bravery and flashes of brilliance.

Speaking about his enforced retirement, Lawson said: “I am absolutely devastated that an injury has forced me to retire from the game that has been my life for the past decade. However I feel hugely privileged to have been able to enjoy such a long and successful career doing something that I love.

“While I wish I could continue playing for a few more years, I have to accept what the surgeon has told me and that it isn’t possible to play at this level any more. I consider myself so lucky to have been able to captain my country, play in two World Cups and be part of some amazingly talented squads, most recently at Newcastle Falcons and previously at Gloucester and Edinburgh.

“Not many people get to experience some of the sporting highs I have been fortunate enough to experience and I would like to thank every coach and every player I have played alongside during my career, as well of course as my wife, family and close friends who have supported me every step of the way.

“I’m not entirely sure what the future holds at this stage but there are a few opportunities to explore and I will continue to work closely with my RPA Player Development Manager, Mandy Thompson, to identify what areas to focus on over the coming months and I’d like to thank her for her amazing support through this transition.

“One ambition has always been to try my hand at broadcasting. Whilst there is no way I would ever attempt to match ‘the great man’ in the commentary stakes, hopefully I’ve inherited at least a couple of my Papa’s genes, so you never know! I will continue to fundraise for the Bill McLaren Foundation whilst assessing next steps.

“Again my thanks go to all my teammates, staff and supporters at all clubs I have represented, to Scotland, and to my wife Max, family and closest friends.